Nesting Facts

Behavior

Dives from the surface of the water and chases prey underwater. Grabs fish in bill, without spearing it.Back to top

Conservation

Great Cormorant populations in the northwestern Atlantic appear to be stable. The North American Waterbird Conservation Plan estimates a continental breeding population of 11,600 birds, rate the species a 12 out of 20 on the Continental Concern Score, and list it as a Species of Moderate Concern. Great Cormorant are not listed on the 2014 State of the Birds Watch List. Populations were greatly reduced in 19th century, probably from direct persecution.Back to top